Dixie Delivers Meals with Joy
Open-minded, enthusiastic, respectful and observant, long-time Tabitha Meals on Wheels volunteer, Dixie Johnson is the epitome of kindness. “God made me with a loving, helping heart,” shares Johnson.
Johnson is a doer and in 2014, after ending a 30-year career, she got busy doing what she loves most — giving back by volunteering for Tabitha Meals on Wheels, Lied Center, Matt Talbot Kitchen, and as a mentor.
Fast forward nine years later and every Monday you’ll still find Johnson delivering warmth by way of her caring spirit and a hot noon Tabitha meal to fortunate recipients on her route.
At one stop, 90-year-old Pat Harre greets Johnson with a hug. Harre is used to being independent. After all, she raised six kids on her own after her husband passed away at the age of 40.
“Dixie is family,” bursts Harre, “we just hit it off. I look forward to seeing her. While I still have my car, I know I should not be driving. Having a prepared meal, delivered, keeps me safe and independent at home. Dixie goes above and beyond, she even helps water my flowers, grabs my mail — she really looks out for me.”
At another delivery George Deemer, age 95, swings open the door with a big smile and embraces Johnson. The former Korean War Air Force veteran and retired Offutt mechanic listens as Johnson reminds him to drink more water and then the focus shifts to his lifelong hobbies of collecting clocks (he has 70) and his love of music, he can play 14 instruments by ear.
“I really look forward to Dixie bringing me my meal, love her like family. I don’t like to cook and after losing my wife Jerine of 60 years, in 2013, I did not have anyone available to cook for me. Tabitha Meals on Wheels deliveries make all
the difference.”
Nonprofit Tabitha needs more Dixies. Make an instant impact and volunteer to deliver today. Visit Tabitha.org/Volunteer or donate money
for meals at Tabitha.org/Give.
As the state’s quality award-winning expert for older adults, nonprofit Tabitha empowers people to live joyfully, age gratefully. Supporting families since 1886 across Nebraska, Tabitha offers a range of services, from results-driven rehabilitation, accessible at-home home health care, innovative living communities, resourceful serious illness support and compassionate hospice services. Tabitha is Your Answer; learn more at Tabitha.org.